Getting a dental filling brings relief from the symptoms of cavities, like toothaches and sensitivity.

 Here is what patients should do after fillings have been installed:

1. Wait until the anesthetic wears off

The dentist will inject the patient with an anesthetic during the procedure. The medication might not wear off until hours after the procedure. It takes away the patient’s ability to feel things in their mouth and that can lead to injuries if they try eating before they regain their ability to feel.

2. Avoid putting pressure on the tooth for a day

If possible, patients should refrain from chewing directly with the newly-repaired tooth. It might put unnecessary stress on a filling that is not fully hardened yet.

3. Avoid putting pressure on the tooth for a day

Fillings do not require any special care. Brushing and flossing are all it takes to get the most out of this treatment. Patients are advised to brush at least two times a day. Brushing before going to bed is particularly important since bacteria do more damage while a person sleeps. This is due to the decreased saliva production that occurs during sleep. Saliva serves as a natural cleaner that removes bacteria and the acids they produce from teeth surfaces. Brushing before going to bed significantly reduces the damage done at night.
People who have a history of dealing with cavities should consider using a mouthwash that contains fluoride. Fluoride helps to mineralize tooth enamel, which protects against tooth decay.

4. Do not suck on teeth

Some people habitually suck on their teeth and that is not good for dental fillings. Over time, it can lead to the fillings becoming loosened or even coming out. The patient will need to get another filling or risk the cavity becoming larger.